FY2026 Annual Report

6 75 th Anniversary To promote quality mental health and substance use services through training, technical assistance, research and policy development. Our Mission Change the perception, impact and outcomes associated with current views of mental illness and substance use disorders. Develop policy and educational initiatives required to create more understanding and informed actions related to mental illness and substance use disorders in key life areas such as the workplace, school and home. Gain greater recognition, acceptance, education and treatment of mental illness and substance use disorders to strengthen children and families. Conduct anti-stigma campaigns, educational activities and research. Identify and address mental health and substance use policy issues. Focus on identifying best practices in mental illness and substance use prevention and treatment. Build awareness of and interest in behavioral healthcare careers and strengthen the workforce through training initiatives. Our Priorities and Objectives Executive Director NJMHI Board Officers: Debra L. Wentz, PhD CHAIR Barrett Young, MS Chief Executive Officer Rescue Mission of Trenton VICE CHAIR Elsa Candelario, DSW, MSSW, LCSW Professor of Professional Practice Director, MSW Program and LISTA (Latin/a/o/x Initiatives for Service Training, and Assessment) Program Rutgers University School of Social Work SECRETARY Cheryl Marks-Young, MAS, PCC Founder and CEO Creative Blueprints for Leaders TREASURER Michele M. Eichorn, MBA, LCSW Chief Operating Officer Center for Family Services